In this discussion, Spinal Breathing Prāṇāyāma , we are excited to share with you the essence of Kriya Yoga, which is the practical means of action and attainment. Nearly all spiritual paths and means of self-actualization have very similar messages; the mystical origins behind the powers of the breath and the importance of the spine are not apart from universal concepts. The biology of enlightenment and Kundalini energy are each a scientific phenomenon, and they are rooted in the activity of the breath, the spine, and the human nervous system. We can influence our neurobiological functioning and create profound inner alchemy through these simple, yet powerful, techniques.
Developing an ecstatically conductive nervous system by sensitizing the spine through specific breathing techniques is a real possibility for the devoted practitioner. To open the mindbody system and create a stable platform for divinity to be directly experienced can be a goal for those who choose it. For others, deep relaxation and peace towards everyday existence may be their path. Whichever route we choose, the breath and the spine can assist in the process of our spiritual evolution.
We believe that the spine contains many profound secrets. It certainly is the root of our nervous system, which is the primary means for which we experience the world around us. In a four week series, starting in July 2019, we will be cultivating the techniques for the spinal breathing practice in such a way that each individual will not only feel comfortable with them, but empowered to take their own sādhanā to the next level through their own efforts. It is our wish for every practitioner to develop a strong personal practice of spinal breathing prāṇāyāma as part of their own spiritual advancement. Those who are interested in learning more about this course can sign up here, or read onward.
"God is in the spine." - Yogananda Paramahansa
Before we go any further, we must clarify the meaning of the Sanskrit word prāṇāyāma. The word prāṇa (potentially) comes from the roots: pr = before , ana = breath, respiration. There are many potential translations for each word, as context and placement can create a vastly different meaning from the very same word. The goal of this post is not to confuse the reader, but to offer suggestions of meaning to words that seem to have gained much popularity and yet little clarity. Often in the yoga community we connect breath with prāṇa , as if the two are synonymous, yet here we propose the concept that prāṇa is something that is subtler than breath. In fact, based on our translation, it is something that comes before breath.
Consider this: the fact that we know we are breathing is due to chemoreceptors in our brain that measure levels of carbon dioxide in our blood, as well as mechanoreceptors in the muscles of respiration which inform us through their expansion/contraction cycles. Once the inspiratory muscles, the ones responsible for providing space in the thoracic cavity for the arrival of inhalation, are maximally stretched, there are neurobiological and electrochemical impulses which help the body cooperate into its exhalation response. Remember that the body is literally being breathed. We are like a sack inside of a bigger pressure chamber, and the inhalation is received from the outer world. Our exhalation is in response to the inhalation, and the same thing occurs - the muscle system of expiration approaches maximum contraction/relaxation - and the brain-body system responds accordingly. To regulate these complex neurobiological responses and to balance the inspiratory with the expiratory muscle system is one step towards prāṇāyāma.
Keep in mind that the mechanics of interaction for the diaphragm-spine relationship is influenced directly by inhalation and exhalation. The whole spine extends on inhale, and the whole spine flexes on exhale. Thus, the whole body breathes. In addition to this, the whole body responds directly to the breath, and internal harmony relies upon a supportive respiratory process.
Mind follows breath, and breath follows mind.
The inhalation depends completely on the exhalation, and the cooperation and harmonious relationship of these two forces - inhale above, exhale below - are the merge of upward and downward moving energies known as prana and apana. When life is in balance, one might say these two energies are in co-harmonious relationship. There are more than just two, but for the sake of simplicity in this discussion we will keep our conversation on prana and apana.
It may be helpful to also associate the Sun and Moon energies to these two existential qualities of our being - the exhalation being solar and heating, purifying , strengthening , versus the inhalation being lunar and cooling, receptive. Or vice versa! Whichever works best for the individual practitioner. All concepts are merely helpful tools to advance in practices - personal discernment is required to determine efficacy of technique.
Progression with prāṇāyāma is not determined by capacity of breath, but rather the feeling (bhavana) quality of the practice. With consistency, we may gradually develop the literal sensation of the whole body breathing. In addition to this sensitivity, there are alterations in the neurobiological functioning of our entire body. Proper breathing is the pathway to deep inner peace and ever-abiding stillness, the goal of all yoga.
We may also develop a sensitive spine and notice the actual mechanics of how our body moves in response to the natural processes of breathing. This is great and very helpful to advancing in our yoga practices, although not a prerequisite for progress. We again propose and support the theory that it’s not WHAT it’s HOW. How the practitioner engages in their prāṇāyāma practices, or simply how the approach to breathing might be modified or adjusted to support the natural unfoldment of life energy in our bodies is the key.
To learn more about the subtleties of prāṇāyāma, including spinal breathing prāṇāyāma, we propose to the interested seeker that they attend one of the upcoming class series on the subject. It is only through direct experience that theory can become realized as true or untrue. Working with the breath in such a way is, in essence, the science of the spirit (inhale = to inspire = to be in-spirit). It is our assurance that whether or not the concepts outlined in our discussion here resonate with the reader, any deliberate practice which helps the individual become sensitive to the energies underlying the breath will be a helpful and worthy pursuit. Our wish is to only offer guidance and inspiration for the most helpful of practices as per our experiences and the experiences of other practitioners at BTGY.
May all sincere seekers awaken to the truth of their own being. OM, namaste!
Comments